from Wes Crosby at NHL.com,

Jack Johnson is expected to sign a five-year contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins when he becomes a free agent July 1, 105.9 The X and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported Wednesday.

The 31-year-old defenseman had 11 points (three goals, eight assists) for the Columbus Blue Jackets last season after scoring 23 points (five goals, 18 assists) the previous season.

"If we can add another defenseman, I'd be pretty happy going into opening night," Penguins general manager Jim Rutherford said.

continued

I saw those reports earlier today, AAV was reported between $3M-3.5M.

Remember, this period of talk to the UFAs is supposed to be general talk but salary always seems to find a way into the talk.